Why Bella Ramsey Faces Backlash Despite Their Success in The Last of Us

Bella Ramsey has quickly risen to fame thanks to their breakout performance as Ellie in HBO’s hit series The Last of Us. While many viewers praise Ramsey for capturing Ellie’s complexity and emotional depth, the young star has also attracted an unusual amount of backlash and criticism online. This phenomenon raises the question: why does someone so talented and successful have so many anti-fans?

One of the main reasons is tied to expectations. The Last of Us is based on a beloved video game, and Ellie has been an iconic character for over a decade. Gamers and long-time fans already had a fixed image of Ellie in mind, and when Ramsey was cast, some felt their appearance didn’t align with what they envisioned. This initial wave of criticism, largely focused on looks rather than acting ability, set the tone for much of the negativity Ramsey has faced since the show’s debut.

Another factor is the challenge of breaking stereotypes in Hollywood. Bella Ramsey, who identifies as non-binary, has been open about rejecting traditional beauty standards and gender expectations. While this has inspired many fans who value inclusivity and representation, it has also fueled criticism from those uncomfortable with change or resistant to seeing diversity in major roles. Social media, in particular, has amplified these voices, giving critics a larger platform to express their hostility.

Additionally, success at a young age often attracts envy. Ramsey’s rapid rise—from Game of Thrones to starring in one of HBO’s most ambitious projects—has made them a target for people who underestimate or dismiss young actors. Some critics even go as far as blaming Ramsey personally whenever storylines or creative decisions in the series don’t align with fan expectations.

Despite this, Ramsey continues to win over audiences with their emotional range and authenticity. Many industry insiders have defended their casting, noting that Ellie is a character defined not by appearance, but by resilience, vulnerability, and fierce loyalty—all traits Ramsey embodies on screen.

In the end, the backlash says less about Ramsey and more about the challenges of adapting beloved works and the toxic culture that sometimes emerges online. While anti-fans may remain loud, Ramsey’s talent and determination suggest their career will only continue to grow, leaving criticism behind.